The bill S. 702 aims to amend various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the definitions and legal framework surrounding domestic violence, particularly focusing on "coercive control" and "dating relationships." It expands the definition of "household member" to include individuals currently or formerly in a dating relationship. Additionally, it introduces the definitions of "dating relationship" and "coercive control," the latter being described as a pattern of behavior that unreasonably interferes with a person's free will and personal liberty. The bill also makes it unlawful for individuals to engage in coercive control over their household members.

Furthermore, the bill updates the grounds for divorce to include criminal domestic violence, stalking, and harassment, and it revises the definition of "abuse" to encompass harassment, stalking, and coercive control. It mandates that courts consider domestic violence, stalking, and harassment when determining the best interests of a child in custody cases. The proposed changes aim to provide greater protection for victims of domestic violence and to ensure that the legal system recognizes and addresses the complexities of abusive relationships.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 16-25-10, 16-25-20, 20-3-10, 20-4-20, 63-15-240
01/14/2026: 16-25-10, 16-25-20, 20-3-10, 20-4-20, 63-15-240
Latest Version: 16-25-10, 16-25-20, 20-3-10, 20-4-20, 63-15-240